A St Catherine man who is accused of forcing his children to eat faeces is now in police custody, charged with cruelty to children.

The incident occurred in the parish last Thursday, police told THE STAR.

Reports are that last Wednesday night, the man was at home with the children, ages 7, 9 and 12 years. Police said one of the children wanted to defecate but was afraid to go outside and use the pit latrine.

The child reportedly defecated in a closet and left it there.

Police said the following day the faeces was reportedly found by the father who inquired of the children who had carried out such an act. All the children denied it.

The man, the police said, became angry and reportedly forced all three to eat the mess.

Residents became aware of the incident and contacted the police.

Following investigations, the children were given medical examinations. Further investigations resulted in the arrest of the father.